Bodog Beat

The NHL postseason has a certain way of lining the pockets of handicappers who, pardon the cliché, know what it takes to win the Stanley Cup. (AP Images)

The playoffs are absolutely brutal: four rounds, each series a best-of-seven affair. An NFL underdog like the Arizona Cardinals can catch lightning in a bottle and make some cash; the profile for a successful NHL team includes four useful lines, six solid defensemen, strong special teams units (including face-offs) and a goalie at the top of his game.

The Detroit Red Wings had all these things last year and almost won the Cup on cruise control. This year, they’re co-favorites with the San Jose Sharks at 7-2, but Detroit’s goaltending (specifically Chris Osgood) has been awful with an .895 save percentage. You don’t need to be a veteran puckhead to absorb that number and handicap accordingly. Just watch out for Hot Goalie Syndrome. Head to the Bodog Sporstbook for all your NHL hockey odds.